Ethan realized that not just Knight Captain Rowan and Magnus but even Knight Captain James was relatively lucky and found his own suitable element. It must be said that every knight has his corresponding most suitable element but only a select few are able to find and draw upon its strength through corresponding element breathing techniques.
Magnus awakened the element of light; Rowan awakened the element of darkness and James awakened the element of earth. Ethan decided he would give them a low-grade top rank technique which would enable them to cultivate to the peak of Mortal Knight realm if their aptitudes allow it. Ethan chose three techniques after browsing the mall, Radiant Pulse Technique, Terra Resonance Method and lastly Veil of Shadows Method which is light, earth and darkness respectively.
After buying the techniques, Ethan decided to shed his royal garb, don a commoner's attire, and embark on a journey in disguise through the vibrant heart of his kingdom. The atmosphere was brimming with joy and anticipation. The city streets buzzed with energy as people were engaged in their daily chores, children played around the cobblestone paths, vendors shouted out their wares, and artisans showcased their skills.
The market squares and streets teemed with merchants selling their goods, you could hear the faint sound of people arguing about prices in the distance, the air filled with the tantalizing scent of spices, the smell of freshly baked bread drew people in for a quick look, the clink-clank of the blacksmith's anvil, and the hum of cheerful bartering. The city has grown like never before and just seeing how the streets were filled with people put a warm smile on Ethan's face.
Leaving the city behind, Ethan ventured into the countryside. The sight of expansive lush vineyards and fertile crop fields, stretching as far as the eye can see just as you leave the city gates overwhelms him. The vineyards were a sea of leafy green vines, heavy with plump, juicy grapes, ready to be harvested and transformed into the kingdom's products. The fields were swathed in a sea of gold, the stalks of wheat swaying gently in the breeze. 'Now this is a picture-perfect sight" he sighed looking dazed toward the fields of gold.
After his leisurely walk through the kingdom, Ethan returned to the castle with renewed vigor. He immediately summoned his council. The throne room echoed with the sound of serious deliberation as they set the date for their maritime expedition. "On the morrow's morrow, we shall set sail," Ethan announced, his voice resonating with determination.
< The next day >
Ethan was busy dealing with political issues and safety when a messenger rushed into the council chamber with a report. It was Rowan, the Master of Ravens. His face, usually calm and composed, now bore an expression of deep concern.
"My Lord," he began, his voice filled with an urgency that immediately caught Ethan's attention. "I bring urgent news.'' Ethan beckoned for him to continue and dismissed his ministers and council heads.
When it was just Rowan and Ethan left the room Rowan delivered the news. "The ravens bring grave news. Two kingdoms, their banners lifted high, are amassing an army. They march upon Verdant Vale."
Ethan's heart skipped a beat at the mention of Verdant Vale. "Are you certain, Rowan?" he asked, his tone remaining steady despite the troubling news.
"With all due respect, sire, the ravens have been most accurate as of late," Rowan said, his voice echoing in the silence of the chamber. "We've intercepted multiple messages, all pointing to the same unsettling conclusion."
"Which two kingdoms march towards us??" Ethan asked. "The Kingdom of Florathel, known for their strong archers and swift footmen, and The Kingdom of Argenthrall which are known for their light cavalry." he replied
The room fell into a heavy silence. The impending maritime journey, which was a symbol of their kingdom's progress and ambition, now seemed to be in jeopardy. The thought of a potential invasion was a stark contrast to the joy and prosperity Ethan had witnessed in his kingdom.
Ethan, although taken aback, remained composed. "How soon do you believe they can reach Verdant Vale?" he asked, his mind already racing with strategies and countermeasures. Ethan expected kingdoms to come and invade Verdant Vale when he read the reports. He knew that no kingdom could resist the amount of wealth Verdant Vale had amassed. Not to mention its geographic location has many advantages. Ethan had made sure that the ravens spread and kept an eye on the neighboring kingdoms.
"I fear they may be upon us within a fortnight if their pace remains unchecked, my Lord," Rowan replied, the gravity of his words hanging heavy in the air.
"Then we must prepare," Ethan declared, his voice echoing his resolve. "Our journey to the sea may have to wait, but our duty to protect our kingdom cannot. We will meet this threat head-on and ensure the safety of our people. Every man, every child, every grain of wheat, every cobblestone of our cities, is worth fighting for."
"Prepare for War!!"
The news of the incoming invasion spread throughout the kingdom. Every possible soldier was called to arms as they set off to the border where they would be victorious or fall in honor in battle.
As they marched the ravens sent word regarding the enemies' strength." The enemy has amassed about 700 trainees, 6 apprentice knights of the Knight level, 4 apprentice knights of the Knight Lieutenant level as well as 4 in the Knight Captain level. Most of the normal Knights are at stage one, the lieutenants are mostly at stage 5 none of the 6th stage. There are 2 knights at Stage 8 and one in stage 9." Rowan reported.
"Looks like they underestimate us, that's good we can use it to our advantage. No one would have expected for a newly advance Tier 5 kingdom to have a Peak stage Apprentice realm Knight." Ethan sighed as he looked at the strength the enemy had gathered.